How do I deal with this?

Question

I'm going through radiation therapy for breast cancer and still trying to work. People keep saying that at least I'm ONLY having radiation and not chemo (which I agree with) and chemo is SO much worse (also agree). But when they ask how I'm feeling, I don't know how to answer because I am just exhausted. I'm not sleeping, I have a long commute to work, and a boss (woman) who is not understanding. Others here have had much worse cancer and chemo and radiation, and came right back to work, and I think she's comparing me to them. I have another month to go. I can't afford to quit or take a leave of absence. 

I am not sure I can do this - any helpful thoughts?

Craftylass · Accepted Answer

Hang in there!  You're in the home stretch!

People are unaware of how exhausting any kind of treatment can be.  Radiation can cause fatigue that others just can't understand.  You are still dealing with the emotional side effects of cancer to begin with!

Those to whom you are being compared may have come back to work after their treatment was completed.  No one should be comparing you, though, because cancer is cancer is cancer.  While cancers and their treatments are very different from each other, the mere mention of the word tends to trigger the same fear reaction in all those diagnosed with it.

You might find this info about radiation fatigue to be helpful:  http://www.cancer.org/treatment/treatmentsandsideeffects/treatmenttypes/radiation/understandingradiationtherapyaguideforpatientsandfamilies/understanding-radiation-therapy-fatigue

When someone asks how you are feeling, you should be honest with them.  "Thanks for asking.  I'm dealing with a lot of fatigue and exhaustion that is linked to radiation treatments.  Some people have it worse than others and unfortunately, I'm one of those."

I wish you well.  Sounds like we may be finished with our radiation treatments around the same time!

wraith7n · Answer

I think you might be worrying to much about what other people think. Don't get your value from them and what they think. Because you were created by a God that loves you and in His eyes you are worth so much to Him that He had His Son die for you. People will always think less of you when they compare things. Just deal with what you need to deal with and ignore them.

formerly_bob · Answer

I think you answered your own question - tell them you are exhausted, can't sleep, and its very difficult.

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How do I deal with this?

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